All students may participate in a variety of choral and instrumental music ensembles. Music majors and minors must fulfill the ensemble requirement in their designated programs. Initial placement in an ensemble is determined by means of an interview or audition with the ensemble conductor; chamber ensembles are formed when sufficient interest warrants. Successful participation in a music ensemble may earn one credit each semester toward the maximum allowed in the student's degree program. Please contact the ensemble conductor for further information.
The student may enroll in the following General Music courses to satisfy 1) the requirements of the General Education Program (usually applicable to Fine, Performing, and Literary Arts or Western Historical Perspectives or Non-Western Cultures: please check the "Schedule of Classes" for precise designations); 2) certain requirements in the music major or minor; or 3) the desire for the elective credit. The courses are leveled in accord with the guidelines given below which serve as prerequisites.
Courses at the "100" level -- Generally open to all students. Such courses assume no particular familiarity with music and tend to emphasize a substantial number of listening experiences.
Courses at the "200" level -- The ability to read music and some experience in listening to music are recommended. Most courses at this level are writing-intensive and presume the successful completion of English 101.
Courses at the "300" level -- Because standard college-level music texts may be used, the ability to read music is required. Students should have the ability to read critically from musical scores and literary sources of the period. Junior standing is recommended.
Music 100 - Fundamentals of Music Studio, 4 Credits -- Ian Polster
For the student with no previous piano experience who is willing to maintain a regular practice schedule. Through this practical approach to the fundamentals of music, the student gains understanding of how music works by applying musical concepts to playing the piano in a laboratory situation. All information is presented in class, demonstrated, and then must be rehearsed or written. Because the material is cumulative, and the learning of it cannot be delayed, it is essential that students work at a steady pace both inside and outside of class. The successful student will be able to write and read music, create melodies, harmonies, and accompaniments at the keyboard. Evaluation is by written and playing exams administered regularly throughout the course, and a functional final exam. No prerequisite skills.
Music 100 - Fundamentals of Music: Studio, 4 Credits -- Christopher Durrenberger
A course surveying the practical fundamentals of music, taught at instruments in the electronic keyboard laboratory. Reading and written assignments are de-emphasized -- the focus is on actively learning musical concepts, such as score reading, melody, harmony, and improvisation at the keyboard. Students will also be exposed to the margins of music and technology through such mediums as MIDI. Designed for those with little or no piano experience, the course has no prerequisites, but students must be willing to devote daily practice time to the mastering of cumulative skills. There will be a few written quizzes, but most of the examinations will consist of short exercises and performances at the keyboard. No prerequisite skills.
Music 101 - Elementary Music Theory, 4 Credits -- Daniel Kazez
This course is designed to help students analyze and compose music using Western conventions developed over the past thousand years. Both classical and popular music styles are studied. Music reading is covered rapidly in the first week, and then more-complex elements of melody, rhythm, and harmony are studied. Grading is based on homework, several tests, and a term project consisting of music composition and analysis. No prerequisite.
Music 101 - Elementary Music Theory, 4 Credits -- Ian Polster
A course designed for the non-major who wants to learn about basic music theory including scales, intervals, triads, keys, instrumentation, harmony and analysis. A rudimentary ability to read music is helpful. The course includes extensive written work and some computer assisted instruction. Evaluation is by written tests administered regularly throughout the course and a final exam. By the end of the semester the successful student should have sufficient knowledge of the fundamentals of music to support additional music course work. No prerequisite skills.
Music 101 - Elementary Music Theory, 4 Credits -- Donald Busarow
An introductory course designed to give students a fundamental understanding of the basics of music theory. This course is intended for the non-music major who wants to learn the mechanics of harmonizing given melodies and/or bass lines. It is also intended for the music major who needs to review the basics and intends to continue the study of music theory on the advanced level. A rudimentary ability to read music is helpful. The course begins with a study of the materials of music -- intervals, triads, scales, key signatures, meter and melodic structure. By the end of the semester the student has been introduced to the basics of four-part writing with chords in root position. Grading is based on daily assignments consisting of exercises in each of the areas studied and supplemented with analytical work provided by the instructor. No prerequisite.
Music 110 - Understanding Music, 4 Credits – Stephen Siek
A basic introductory course designed to explore some of the great works of musical art. The materials of music, such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and texture are examined in their historical contexts from the Medieval period to the present. Various forms of musical expression such as the fugue, sonata form, and theme and variations are also surveyed. Listening to a wide variety of music and attendance at three concerts is required. The text is Music Listening Today by Charles Hoffer (Wadsworth, 1999).
Music 110 - Understanding Music, 4 Credits -- Daniel Kazez
We study some of the finest works of Western classical music by Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Stravinsky, and other composers. We examine, from an historical perspective, music composed from the year 850 to the present. Throughout the course we develop the skills necessary to listen to any work of music and make educated conclusions regarding its musical style, its composer, and the era in which it was composed. Out-of-class work includes reading, listening to many recorded works of music, and attending several concerts. Grading is based on three exams and on other assignments.
Music 110 - Understanding Music, 4 Credits – Ian Polster
A basic introductory course -- "inside music" -- emphasizing aural perceptual skills and designed to enable the student to appreciate some of the great works of musical art. Explores the materials of music, i.e., melody, harmony, rhythm, tone color, form and mediums of expression. Surveys the basic style periods of music. Required outside listening to a wide variety of music and attendance at selected, appropriate live performances. Assessment is by regular testing throughout the course, and a functional final exam.
Music 207 - American Music, 1620-1900, 4 Credits -- Stephen Siek
The course surveys, through written and recorded examples, the most important collections and musical compositions that characterized the cultural climate of the New World from Colonial times through the nineteenth century. Musical materials associated with the Pilgrims, the Puritans, the Federalist era, and the Civil War are examined, as well as the music of African-Americans, early American theater, and specific composers such as William Billings and Stephen Foster. The course emphasizes a strong historical-sociological thrust, and it is hoped that the musical content will serve to promote a greater understanding of America's early history. The course features some visual material, such as films and slides. Writing intensive.
Music 212 - Topics: Technology for Teaching Music in the Schools, 2 credits – Steven Winteregg
A course which will introduce the student to the basics of technology as it relates to teaching music in the schools. The student will gain general skills and knowledge of current technology in the following areas: the Internet, computer-assisted instruction, desktop publishing, music notation, music sequencing, digital audio, and multimedia. The student's grade will be based on quizzes and the completion of six projects. Prerequisite: Music 101 or 155 or permission of the instructor.
Music 121 - 145 -- Applied Music Lessons, 1 to 2 Credits -- Staff Applied music lessons are available for all students regardless of major. Please consult the Schedule for a complete list of offerings.
Enrollment and scheduling - Initial enrollment and teacher assignment can be arranged by contacting the chairperson of the Department of Music in Krieg Hall. At the time of the first lesson, the student's level and course of study will be determined. In Applied Organ, Piano, and Voice, it may be necessary for students to audition in order to ascertain the suitability of applied study and to arrange for teacher assignment. If the student does not read music, enrollment in Music 100 (Fundamentals of Music: A Studio Course) may be recommended in order to establish enough background so that the student can practice independently and in a profitable manner. Because applied lessons are individually scheduled, it is necessary for continuing students to file copies of their proposed schedules with the departmental office before registering with the Registrar's Office each semester lessons are taken.
Credit - Normally, weekly private lessons during the fifteen-week semester are 30 minutes in length and earn one credit. The expected time for practice is at least one hour a day. Should desire and program permit, it is possible to enroll for a 60-minute lesson every week and earn two credits. The expectations for practice time increase proportionately. The grade earned will be figured into the cumulative grade point average of the student.
Fees - During the 2001-2002 academic year, the fee for private applied music lessons is $250 for each credit taken. The applied music fee is usually waived if the lessons are part of the requirements for a major or a minor in music. Generally, for the minor, only one credit is waived each semester.
Practice rooms - Every student who is registered for applied music lessons may reserve suitable practice space of Krieg Hall. Since most practice rooms are always kept locked, a key deposit is required of those students who use them. Please consult the departmental office in order to obtain a key and to schedule practice rooms and rehearsal space. NOTE: Only students who are involved in the programs of the Department of Music, i.e., applied lessons or ensembles, may use a practice room.
Lockers - Lockers with combination locks for the storage of music and musical instruments are available in Krieg Hall and may be reserved by contacting the office of the Department of Music, Krieg 301B. Liability coverage is the responsibility of the student.
Instrument rental - A large collection of musical instruments is maintained by the Department of Music and is available for student use. If a particular instrument is used exclusively by an individual student, a nominal rental fee for the maintenance of the instrument may be charged. The current fee is $15 per semester.
The following intensive courses in music are open to all students with the permission of the instructor; they are primarily designed for the music major. Further information about the courses may be obtained from the departmental office.
Music 199 - Music Practicum, non-credit -- Staff
Monitors attendance and participation by the music major at concert and recital events, at special workshops and clinics. Includes attending or participating in a monthly student recital. Required of all majors every semester.
Music 225 - Lyric Diction II, 2 Credits – Kenneth Scheffel
A basic study in the pronunciation and application of the German and French languages as related to their use in singing. Required of all performance majors in voice. Prerequisite: Music 224 or permission of instructor. Every year.
Music 251 - Introduction to Computer Composition, 2 Credits – Steven Winteregg
An introduction to basics of composition utilizing computers and synthesizers. The student will learn how to write a melody, countermelody and accompaniment as well as utilize basic forms. At the same time, the student will develop proficiency in the basic use of MIDI and the Finale music notation program. The student's grade will be based on homework and composition projects. Prerequisite: Music 101 or Music 155 or permission of instructor.
Music 257 - Music Theory II, 3 Credits -- Donald Busarow
Since this course resumes study after a three-month recess, the first week is spent reviewing all four-part writing principles of the Common Practice Period, beginning with secondary dominants, the last area studied in Music 155. The text used is Walter Piston's Harmony, fifth edition (continued from Music 155). The course then proceeds with studies in musical texture, diminished seventh chords, non-dominant sevenths, dominant ninths, elevenths, and thirteenths, augmented sixths, Neapolitans, and other chromatic chords. A final project consists of an original composition based upon a text selected by the student, an original melody and four-part harmonization incorporating as much of the harmonic vocabulary available to the student following completion of this course. Prerequisite: Music 155.
Music 258 - Music Skills II - 2 Credits -- Christopher Durrenberger
Includes two related components: (1) Singing: Students learn to sing pitch patterns and rhythm patterns, in order to facilitate their playing, singing, conducting, composing, and studying of music. Significant and regular outside practice is required. Grading is based on in-class performance. (2) Ear Training: Students learn to notate pitch patterns and rhythm patterns presented aurally. Students learn to write down music they hear or create. Grading is based on dictation exams. Prerequisite: Music 156 or
equivalent, or by examination.
Music 301 - History of Western Music to 1750, 4 Credits -- Trudy Faber
A study of the important musical developments from early Greek music, through the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods, and of the composers whose creativity brought new ideas to fruition. Topics include: chant and early polyphony, the Ars Nova and Trecento, the development of the Netherlands' style, music of the Reformation and Counter-Reformation, Italian monody, opera and opera-related forms, instrumental music of the Baroque and especially the music of Bach, Vivaldi, and Handel. Although the course format is generally lecture/discussion/listening, there will also be videos and "live" performances on organ and harpsichord. Required for some music majors. Writing intensive.
Music 450 - Form and Analysis, 4 Credits -- Steven Winteregg
Comprehensive study of analytical techniques designed to give the student the tools for understanding the compositional processes of a wide spectrum in music. Prerequisite: Music 257 or permission of instructor. Alternate years.
Music 490 - Independent Study, 2 to 4 Credits -- Staff
Individual project as arranged by the student with the supervising professor and the Department Chair. May be writing intensive.
Music 491 - Internship, 2 to 4 Credits -- Staff
2 to 4 semester hours. Supervised learning-work experience at various on- or off-campus sites generally taken the senior year. Usually involves a written report, a journal, or other assignments.
Music 495 - Senior Recital/Paper, 2 Credits -- Staff
Presentation of a full-length recital in the primary area of applied music study. A challenging program to be determined in consultation with the applied music teacher. Designed as a culmination of preceding studies. A written paper of moderate length and relating to some aspect of the program is also required. Required of Bachelor of Music degree students. An oral examination, reviewing and assessing the student's previous work in all areas of the music major, concludes the course. Prerequisite: At least three terms of advanced study in the primary area of applied music, senior standing, and concurrent registration in the area of advanced applied study. Students qualified to pursue departmental honors will register for Music 496 with permission of the department chair. Writing intensive.
Music 497 - Senior Portfolio Review, 0 Credits -- Staff
Presentation of selected classwork and related materials and resources and the demonstration of musical skills and competencies in an oral examination format before a committee of three faculty members. Required of the major in music education. The review and examination should occur at the beginning of the senior year and at least one full semester prior to the student's taking Education 495: Student Teaching.
Music 498 - Senior Project, 2 Credits -- Staff
Full-scale investigation of a selected topic or a production of a creative project. Usually presented in a written form. The project is juried by a committee of three faculty members. Both the project and the committee should be determined by the end of the student's junior year and in consultation with the academic adviser and the department chair. An oral examination, reviewing and assessing the student's previous work in all areas of the music major, concludes the course. Students qualified to pursue departmental honors will register for Music 499 with permission of the department chair. Writing intensive.
Music 233 - Percussion Instruments, 1 Credits – Mark Smarelli
Instruction in percussion instruments with emphasis on teaching techniques, methods, and materials. Study will primarily be on snare, mallet, and timpani technique. Also included will be an overview of Latin and orchestral percussion instruments.
Music 465 - Instrumental Music in the School, 3 Credits – Tom Kennedy
Integrated course including the problems involved in the organization and administration of an instrumental program. Includes an introduction to computer software specifically designed for music education and administration. Laboratory experience in the care and repair of instruments and the purchase of supplies and equipment. Includes exploratory teaching. Prerequisites: Permission of Chair and Education 102. Alternate years.
Music 466 - Marching Band, 1 Credit – Tom Kennedy
Practical course dealing with the organization, planning, and design requisite for performances given by the marching band. Includes the use of computer software especially designed for charting these performances. Prerequisites: Music 165, 231, 232, and 233.